The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is tentatively set to resume its hearings next week, but its members are currently focused on finalizing procedural rules—particularly those governing the livestreaming of proceedings to the public.
In an interview at DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, ICI Executive Director Atty. Brian Hosaka said the commission is carefully balancing the public’s call for transparency with the need to protect the rights of individuals who may be invited to appear before the body.
“The public wants more transparency, but at the same time, we also need to safeguard human rights, including the right to due process,” Hosaka explained in Filipino during the interview.
He noted that some individuals who may be called as resource persons could later turn out to be linked to questionable projects. “We have to protect their individual rights, including the right against self-incrimination,” he said.
Hosaka added that livestreaming could pose complications if names of other individuals are mentioned during hearings, as those implicated might not immediately have the opportunity to defend themselves immediately.
“Due process means you have the right to confront your accuser and present evidence. If a name is mentioned live, that person might not be there to respond,” he said.
The ICI is also cautious about preventing “trial by publicity” and avoiding the misuse of hearings for political gain.
“The commission wants to make sure it is not used for grandstanding or political purposes,” Hosaka stressed.
When asked how the ICI’s livestreaming would differ from those of Senate or House proceedings, Hosaka said the commission’s format is still being discussed. He explained that the ICI’s primary mandate is fact-finding rather than adjudication, meaning the questioning process is largely one-way—from commissioners to resource persons.
“The resource persons are the ones providing information under oath,” he clarified. “Their lawyers may only speak if the commission directly allows it.”
Hosaka emphasized that the commission’s current priority is drafting its livestreaming and procedural rules before proceeding with hearings. “That’s what we’re working on right now aside from our case build-up,” he said.
